13 Jun “Wash your face with soap” isn’t enough anymore.

When you were growing up, you probably heard your parents say, “wash your face and brush your teeth” again and again. Most likely, your childhood-self put some soap on a wet towel, scrubbed away, and then rinsed. Out of habit, this routine might have stuck with you through your adult life. But let’s just get one thing clear — do not wash your face with soap.

Here’s why:

pH Levels

Basically, pH (potential hydrogen level) is measurement of acidity. The pH scale goes from 1-14. Anything with a pH level below 7 is acidic and anything above is considered to be basic. Our skin, has a pH level of about 5.5 because of a thin barrier called the “acid mantle.” The acid mantle gives us protection from viruses, bacteria, and harmful microbes.

The pH level of hand soap tends to be around 9-10, which means it’s basic. Applying this type of soap to your face can mess with the acidity levels of your skin. When this layer is tampered with, it creates an environment that’s safer for bacteria, and your skin will get irritated.

Natural Oils

Our skin is not only acidic, but it’s also oily. As mammals, we have sebaceous glands near our hair follicles that release an oily substance called sebum. Sebum helps keep our skin soft, smooth, and even water proof.

When too much sebum is produced, it will get trapped with dead skin cells and bacteria causing acne. When you don’t have enough sebum, your skin becomes dry. Soap will wash away the natural oils that your skin produces.

When your skin is too dry, it will accentuate wrinkles. Your sebaceous glands will also overwork to compensate for the lost sebum, and you will be more prone to blemishes.

Solution

Your skin will recover from oil and acidity imbalances, but this process takes hours. During this window, it will be more susceptible to damage. Although you could use moisturizer to repair dryness, prevention is better than any cure. That’s why at Skin Deep we carry Dermologica’s Special Cleansing Gel as a part of the Skin Health product system.

The Special Cleansing Gel is soapless, washes away impurities, and will leave your skin in even better condition. Balm mint and lavender will soothe your face, while Quillaja Saponaria does the cleaning. Quillaja Saponaria, also known as the soapbark tree, is plant native to Chile. Its bark contains naturally produced saponins, which when added to water, creates a foam ideal for cleaning.

Using soap once or twice may not leave any lasting damage. Making it a habit will eventually wear out your skin, and even accelerate aging. Dermologica’s Skin Health product system, will get you on track towards healthier daily skin care.